While Porto’s powerhouse Joao Moutinho was Andre Villas-Boas primary target during the summer, the Brazilian’s ability to spread the play while also possessing the capability to beat several players could have made him a more viable option.

When it was assumed Redknapp would be given first refusal on the England job, there was a consensus that this summer’s European Championships would represent a tournament without pressure. Roy Hodgson will not be afforded that luxury.